Most common triggers of Lupus Flare-ups

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease which may affect the skins, joint and even the internal organs. It is commonly known as disease of flares and remissions. Though the remissions period provide relief but flare-ups can turn misery on you at any time.

Though lupus flares are unpredictable, medical experts have identified few factors that trigger flare-ups. Common factors that influence lupus triggers include;

Continuous stress

Stress often comes to you. It could be your work, family matters, relationships, financial circumstances … The list goes on.

Best thing you can do is to separate yourself emotionally from your stressors. You need a break to cut the web of events bringing you stress. It will energize you and make you happier. It will not only improve you a better person but also reduces significantly the likelihood of a lupus flare-up.

Another essential part of your stress management involves not over-extending yourself. Being productive is different from trying to do too many things which may result in a break down…. Possibly leads to flare-up.

Overdoing cannot be defined precisely it varies from person to person. One helpful tip is, avoid trying too many things in a short span of time. Learn to say no and don’t worry about disappointing others. Your body is most important to you, therefore it is vital to listen it.

Doing too much things is a common lupus trigger. Don’t put yourself under undue pressure to do tens of things. Stress is not good for any one, especially someone who is diagnosed with lupus.

Colds and Flus

Colds and flus can trouble anyone but they are especially bad for people with lupus because they can trigger a flare-up. Chances of getting the disease vary with your workplace, day-to-day life, and how many people you live with. Offices where too many people are working under a large roof increase risks of catching it.

Avoid having physical contact with sick workers. In case you shake hand or borrow something from them, don’t forget wash your hands as early as possible.

Poor diet

There is no magic food that can help you cure lupus. Still eating better can help you with lupus symptoms. Eating badly is among common reasons of lupus flares. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar or fat may make you starting feel sick. This might in turn cause your symptoms to flare up.

Be aware of characteristics of certain foods such as alfalfa sprouts and nightshade vegetables that can trigger flare ups even though they are considered healthy foods. Nightshade vegetables include eggplant, tomato and peppers. If any such foods are your favorites no need to quit them entirely. What you need to do is to monitor how you feel after and whether they are trigger for you personally.

Exposure to sun

Sunlight is the most common frustration for people with lupus. Your skin is prone to burning above this sunlight can trigger flare up as well. Fortunately, the sun’s potential damage can be curtailed and its threat as a lupus flare is possible to minimize. Therefore, it is important to use lots of sunscreen and don’t forget to reapply it throughout the day. Long sleeves and wide brimmed hats provide excellent way to shade yourself from the damaging rays.

Other related factors

Apart from sunlight there are few associated things that can be mentioned in conjunction with it. First among them are ultraviolet rays that can be quite damaging. They can come from florescent bulbs and tanning beds.

It is also important to mention certain medications that can enhance the sun’s potential damage and risk to trigger a lupus flare. Some examples of these include:

·        Bactrim®

·        Septra®

·        Gantrisin®

·        Orinase®

·        Azulfidine®

·        Minocin®

·        Amoxil®

·        Ampicillin Sodium ADD-Vantage®

·        Cloxapen®

Inadequate sleep

Sleeping well is great for our immune system. If your stress level, lupus or family issues preventing you having an adequate sleep you need. You are not alone. There are many people who experience similar situation but it does not mean you should give up.

Before hitting the bed take some time to listen to nature or guided mediation.

Take eight to nine hours sleep daily. Set a time for you to go to bed and be intentional about it.

Switch of all your devices before heading to bed. Your gadgets may prevent your mind from getting relaxed.

Quality of sleep really matters when it comes to lupus flares. It strengthens your immune system to avoid illnesses that can make your condition act up.

Over drinking

Though it is not a very common lupus trigger, however it is important to bear in mind people with lupus tend to get worse hangovers than those who don’t. Hangovers may prove rather troublesome for lupus patients. They can leave you feeling bad for days on end.

Every time you drink, make sure to limit yourself to an adequate quantity. Drink lots of water in between beverages.

The five things mentioned above are key points to bear in mind. However, lupus flares can come from other things as well. Some of these include:

·        Injuries

·        Surgeries

·        Giving birth

·        Other physical traumas

Many of them are situations one has little control over. Feeling angry or helpless would only aggravate things. Be easy on yourself. Take pride in everything you do despite this terrible disease.  In case of any ambiguity don’t hesitate to reach out your doctor. Make taking care of yourself a top priority.